Which model of democracy does Brutus No. 1 describe? How do you know?
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
Brutus No. 1 describes a participatory model of democracy, emphasizing the importance of direct citizen involvement in the political process. This model is grounded in the belief that a truly democratic society should enable individuals to engage directly in decision-making, rather than relying solely on representatives.
In Brutus No. 1, the author expresses concerns about the potential for a strong central government, as established by the Constitution, to undermine individual liberties and the principle of self-governance. He argues that a republic—particularly one that is large and diverse—can lead to a disconnect between representatives and their constituents. This disconnect could make it difficult for representatives to truly reflect the will and interests of the people. Brutus contends that citizens must have a more active role in governance, advocating for a system where individuals are empowered to participate directly in legislative processes.
The text underscores the risks associated with a representative democracy in which power is concentrated. Brutus warns that a large republic may become unmanageable and that the interests of local communities might be overlooked. He posits that a participatory democracy, wherein citizens are involved in governance at a local level, would better safeguard liberty and prevent tyranny.
Furthermore, Brutus highlights that the complexity and size of a large republic could lead to inefficiencies and a lack of accountability, emphasizing that citizens are better equipped to make decisions about their lives and communities. He argues for the necessity of local governance structures that enable individuals to influence political outcomes directly.
Overall, Brutus No. 1 advocates for a participatory model of democracy by emphasizing the importance of citizen engagement and the risks posed by a distant, centralized authority.